The DSG gearbox will not ruin fuel economy. In fact, it does 2 MPG better than the 6-speed manual gearbox! I was surprised too. The emissions remain unchanged.
I purchased a 6-speed, gas -turbo 2.0 VW GTI (2006) three years ago. It is without question the best car I’ve ever owned. Fast, curve-hugging, reliable, practical (carries my kayaks and bikes with assorted equipment with ease) and gets 30+ MPG highway.
As for the age question, I am 55, so probablly out of the demographis for this car. However, I feel the GTI is “ageless”.
Also,I chose the Golf GTI over the Scirocco because I’m happily married to a wife that enjoys the outdoors. Therefore, we need the extra cargo space. Regards from the USA. Hope this helps you.

Oh Man, they’re both so hot. Get the Scirocco for now.

The DSG is just like a manual trasmission without a clutch pedal, the economy shouldn’t be affected adversely.